Laws regarding traffic control violations are fairly broad, covering signs, signals, and markings intended to regulate traffic, guide drivers, or issue warnings; drivers in Central New York might see hundreds of traffic control devices just driving to work or the grocery store.
Nevertheless, these are all examples of permanent traffic control devices, as are traffic signals posted at intersections. Cones and barricades may serve as temporary traffic control devices, but that doesn’t make them any less important.
If you are cited for disobeying traffic control devices in the state of New York, the resulting penalties typically include fines of up to $150 and a surcharge between $80 and $85. You could also get two points on your license and even be sentenced to up to 15 days in jail at a judge’s discretion. Some violations, like speeding and running stop signs, have their own section under traffic rules to specify penalties, but they are also traffic control device violations.
With so many potential violations lurking on roadways, it’s all too easy to make a mistake and receive a citation, so it’s important to understand the following ways to avoid the most common traffic control device violations in Central New York:
Look for Speed Limit Signs
Because speed limits are posted on signs along roadways, you could receive either a speeding ticket or a citation for disobeying a traffic control device at the discretion of a reporting officer. If you were going just a few MPH over the speed limit, the penalties are similar, but they increase the more excessive your speed, so there’s a good chance you’ll get the former instead of the latter at higher speeds. Either way, it’s always best to comply with the posted speed limit if you want to avoid a ticket.
Don’t Run a Red Light
Citations for running red lights are among the most common traffic control device violations issued, not only because of officers catching violators but also because of red light cameras. New York does not require signage that warns of the presence of red light cameras, so it’s best to keep an eye out for cameras at intersections. You might also want to stop at a yellow light if you don’t think you can make it through before it changes to red.
Make sure to look for signs that direct you not to turn right on red as well. Areas in Central and Upstate New York do not prohibit turning right on a red light, but you are required to yield the right of way to traffic and pedestrians before turning. Even so, municipalities throughout the state can make their own rules; New York City, for example, is notorious for restricting right turns on red lights.
Keep Your Eyes on the Road
When you think of traffic control devices, you probably count signs and signals, but pavement markings also fall into the same category. If you cross a solid line, drive in an HOV lane without the requisite number of passengers, or go straight in a lane designated for turning, for example, you could be cited.
There may or may not be signage that points out these pavement markings, so whenever you get behind the wheel, you must maintain awareness of traffic control devices along your route, both on the road ahead and any posted on road signs, to ensure that you avoid violations and resulting citations.
If you have received a ticket for disobeying a traffic control device in Central New York, contact the experienced team at The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers to schedule a free case evaluation today.
